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Description
Acer tataricum, also known as Tatarian maple, is a deciduous tree native to eastern Europe and western Asia. It belongs to the family Sapindaceae and can grow up to 20 feet tall and wide. The tree has a rounded shape and a spreading canopy, making it ideal for landscaping purposes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Acer |
Appearance
Acer tataricum has dark green leaves that turn yellow, orange, or red in the fall. The tree produces small clusters of yellow-green flowers in the spring, which give way to reddish-brown fruit in the fall. The bark is grayish-brown and smooth when young, but becomes rough and scaly with age.
Care Guide
Acer tataricum requires moderate care and attention to thrive. Here are some tips to ensure its well-being:
- Water: Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce the frequency in the winter.
- Fertilization: Feed the tree with a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.
- Soil: Plant the tree in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Acer tataricum prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Acer tataricum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it may be susceptible to the following:
- Verticillium Wilt: This fungal disease causes the leaves to wilt and die. It can be treated with a fungicide.
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the leaves and can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
- Scale Insects: These pests suck sap from the tree and can be treated with horticultural oil.
Habitat
Acer tataricum grows in a wide range of habitats, including forests, meadows, and rocky slopes. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How fast does Acer tataricum grow?
A: Acer tataricum grows at a moderate pace, averaging around 12-18 inches per year.
Q: When is the best time to prune the tree?
A: Prune Acer tataricum in the late winter or early spring, before new growth appears.
Q: Can Acer tataricum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Acer tataricum can be grown in containers, but make sure to use well-draining soil and provide adequate water and nutrients.
Q: Is Acer tataricum drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Acer tataricum is tolerant of drought conditions, but it still requires regular watering.
Related Plants
- Acer palmatum
- Acer rubrum
- Acer saccharum
- Acer negundo
References
- “Acer tataricum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed May 20, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=t150.
- “Tatarian Maple.” The Morton Arboretum. Accessed May 20, 2021. https://www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/tatarian-maple.
- “Acer tataricum.” Plant Finder. Accessed May 20, 2021. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/1337/tatarian-maple/.
